Rogge plays down fears over Commonwealth Games

SINGAPORE (Reuters) - Reports of financial irregularities, poor security and unfinished venues at the Delhi Commonwealth Games are being exaggerated, International Olympic Committee President Jacque Rogge has said.

"I think the news is darker than the reality will be," Rogge told two specially invited reporters in Singapore at the inaugural Youth Olympic Games Wednesday.

The Commonwealth Games, scheduled for October 3-14, in India have been hit by a spiraling budget which has risen more than 17.5 times over initial estimates and has had state-run firms withdrawing sponsorship due to negative publicity over allegations of mismanagement.

However, Rogge was not concerned about the reports and expected the Games would be staged without any dramas even though refurbishments have yet to be completed.

"I think at the end of the day it will be ok," Rogge said.

"They are doing a huge effort. I think the finishing touches in terms of greenery, wallpaper and mural paintings will not probably be as good as they wished themselves but I think that's peripheral.

"I think if the competition will start on time in a secure way then they will be happy and I think that will be the case."